Gas Explosion: NNPC Partners NMDPRA, Others To Mitigate Impact ……… As Expert Attributes Cause To Obsolete Pipeline

Sequel to the gas explosion at Aleto community, in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited says it is partnering the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), security agencies and local emergency officials to coordinate relief and assess the environmental and structural damage.

The company said it is also engaging “the host community leadership to understand immediate needs and coordinate appropriate support for those affected”.

In a statement signed by the Chief Corporate Communications Officer, NNPC Limited, Andy Odeh, and made available to journalists, at the weekend,  it  announced the activation of emergency containment protocols as well as shutting off and isolating the affected pipeline segment to prevent further leakage or escalation.

The statement said “We are  deeply concerned by reports of injuries and damage to homes and businesses. Our thoughts are with those affected and their families. Protecting lives and preventing further harm are our immediate priorities.

“NGIC has activated its emergency response procedures and isolated the affected pipeline segment to limit further impact and is working with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), security agencies and other relevant stakeholders to coordinate the response and assess the impact on people, property and the environment.

“We are also engaging the host community leadership to understand immediate needs and coordinate appropriate support for those affected”.

According to the statement, the cause of the incident and the full extent of its impact are currently being assessed, adding that relevant operational information, including previous reports and actions taken, would be reviewed to support a clear understanding of the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“We will continue to work closely with the relevant authorities to establish the facts and determine appropriate corrective measures.

“Residents and members of the public are urged to keep clear of the affected area and follow safety instructions from emergency responders and the relevant authorities”, it said.

Meanwhile, an expert and stakeholder who spoke with TheTide under anonymity blamed the explosion on obsolete pipe.

He explained that “the pipe carrying the gas and buried about 4-6 metres deep in the earth is rusty and ruptured. The pressure of the gas was so high that the integrity of the pipe could not carry it so it has to burst”, calling on the NGIC to repair its obsolete pipes and facilities to avoid further occurrence.

A cross section of residents also called on the company to be responsible for the damage caused by the explosion saying” some of our roofs are blown off, others are severely dented, and the economy is tight. We call on the NGIC to please, respond”.

Recall that the explosion ,which occurred last Thursday, on a pipeline operated by NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company Limited (NGIC), resulted in injuries to residents and damaging several residential and commercial properties in the area.

By: Lady Godknows Ogbulu